Children's Sedation Dentist in San Luis Obispo

We understand that going to the dentist can cause some young patients to feel anxious. But while some children only experience a very small amount of anxiety, others have more serious needs that can only be addressed with sedation dentistry.

If your little one is affected by anxiety, our team in San Luis Obispo is happy to be of service. With our sedation options, young patients exactly like your son or daughter can have a new kind of dental experience—one that’s completely free of anxious feelings.

Our sedation options include:

Nitrous Oxide

You might be more familiar with nitrous oxide’s other name, laughing gas.  It’s breathed in through a special mask and goes to work quickly, creating a sense of peace and relaxation. What’s more, the effects of nitrous oxide wear off quickly. Within minutes of reversing the gas and switching back to regular Oxygen, your son or daughter will start feeling more like him- or herself. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after their appointment is over.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is an option for young patients who struggle with slightly more advanced anxiety. Instead of just using a gas that’s breathed in through a special mask, it uses a safe and commonly prescribed medication to create feelings of relaxation. The effects of sedation dentistry take a little longer to wear off. The full effects should wear off within a few hours, but we recommend avoiding normal activities until later in the day.

I.V. Sedation

I.V. Sedation is a stronger level of sedation that is still able to be provided in the office setting.  In this procedure, an anesthesiologist is utilized to achieve the level of sedation needed for Dr. Forester to complete the dental treatment that your child requires.  It is sometimes necessary when there is a very young child with extensive treatment needs, a child that has significant fear, or a patient with special health care needs.  With this option, even the most significant amount of dental work is usually able to be completed in one appointment.

General Anesthesia

General anesthesia describes a type of sedation in which your child will be fully asleep for the entire procedure. This option will utilize an anesthesiologist to sedate and monitor your child while Dr. Forester completes their dental work. It is possible either in the office setting or at the local hospital. 

Call Your Pediatric Dentist to Learn More About Sedation Dentistry

Call Coastal Pediatric Dentistry today to learn more about sedation dentistry or to reserve an appointment with Dr. Forester for your son or daughter.